Final answer:
The medial and lateral plantar arteries, which supply blood to the medial and lateral surfaces of the foot respectively, originate from the bifurcation of the posterior tibial arteries. The plantar arch is formed from their anastomosis with the dorsalis pedis artery, aiding in blood supply to the foot's distal regions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The medial plantar artery and the lateral plantar artery are important vessels that supply blood to various parts of the foot. They both arise from the bifurcation of the posterior tibial arteries. Specifically, the medial plantar artery is responsible for supplying blood to the medial plantar surfaces of the foot, while the lateral plantar artery takes on the role of supplying the lateral plantar surfaces. An essential structure called the plantar arch is formed through the anastomosis of the dorsalis pedis artery and the medial and plantar arteries, which in turn provides branches that supply the distal portions of the foot and digits. Adjacent to the arterial structures, the plantar veins serve to drain the foot and lead to the plantar venous arch, which eventually contributes to the anterior and posterior tibial veins via anastomoses.